Having a job isn’t always scalable. There are only so many ways that you can increase your earnings when you are employed. So, sometimes, you just need to make extra income or find a new way to make a living. If you do this well enough, it could become your own business and lead to you becoming an employer yourself. This is extremely possible, especially if you take into account the power of the internet.

With this in mind, here are 5 ways that as Jamaicans, we can earn online – and scale our businesses to increase our revenues.

1.      Start an e-commerce business

The accelerated expansion of the online e-commerce platform Shopify, as well as the exponential growth of Amazon, shows that e-commerce is a valuable business model. And based on the types of items sold on Shopify, you can start an e-commerce business using the talents you already have.

From artwork, accessories like handmade jewellery, or even calligraphy and home décor items, the possibilities are endless to turn your hobbies into a lucrative online business.

2.      Affiliate Marketing

If you don’t have a product as yet that you would like to sell, you can sell the products of others and earn commission. Many persons make their entire business model on being an affiliate seller for products. Whether through direct sites such as Amazon or other affiliate marketing networks such as ShareASale, you can find products that you have used and enjoyed and wish to promote them.

3.      Start a blog

There are many ways to make money from blogging. If you have a topic that you are passionate about and can write about, then consider starting a blog. With a blog, you can earn from ads, sponsored posts, affiliate sales, or even selling your own products.

4.      Graphic Design

As a graphic designer, you have the skills to start earning online part-time or full time. You can design business material such as logos, brochures, business cards, etc. Any graphic design service you currently provide in your day job can be marketed online in your spare time. And even if it’s a hobby for you, once you’re good at it, there are many sites online where you can market your skills.

5.      Building Websites

Know how many businesses across the world need websites? At December 2016, there were over 1.7 billion websites, and thousands added daily since.  

The internet has brought the world closer for business. This means that you have an even wider market for potential clients for your expert website building skills. Use your own design skills to market your services and help other business professionals with creative websites.

Make Money Online

The internet is not just for established large businesses. It is also highly suited for the entrepreneur/ freelancer economy.

You may think of it as a side hustle. After all, we are a nation known for hustling to make ends meet, improve or lives, and to be the best that we can be. And with that drive, you can achieve a fully viable business online that surpasses bare minimum ‘hustling’. You can become a business owner, ready to contribute to your family and society.

The same systems that large companies use to grow can be used to scale your new business.

If you would like to discuss how to make your earning potential even greater as a small entrepreneur, then let’s talk.

About Leighton

Leighton is adept at helping Jamaican companies leverage the power of the internet to expand business growth. To this end, he has successfully applied tools and solutions in small and large companies to scale and grow their revenues year over year. With his years of experience in the industry, Leighton’s work also empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners to take control of their finances using online sales channels as a viable income stream.

leighton@getmobileedge.com